Ahimsa the Ultimate Winner

Author(s): N P Jain
Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy

Page 56

Venudeva, similarly Mahavir is supreme among those preaching emancipation.)
Twenty four spiritual leaders (Tirthankars) after attaining enlightenment have guided the evolution and elaboration of Jain religion well over 5000 years starting with Rishabhadeva, the first Tirthankar who lived in the pre-Vedic times of Indian history. Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar who lived from 599 B.C. to 527 B.C. is the most widely known. It is interesting that invariably the Tirthankars have been from Royalty and warrior classes, who came to abhor violent conflicts and became detached from worldly bondages in search of inner peace and
contentment.
Mahavir's Spiritual Journey
Mahavir's life span of 72 years was a spectacular amalgam of inherited legacy, inborn intuitive inspiration, remarkable talent, unremitting resolve, deep insight and revolutionary spirit.
Let us go back in time to trace Mahavir's background and process of evolution from an ordinary mortal to a spiritual master. Jain mythology narrates in vivid details how Mahavir had to go through innumerable incarnations ranging from human, animal and other life forms. Jain scriptures give a vivid account of how in the cycle of birth and death, he suffered for his ill deeds and gained from his rational conduct in each incarnation. Finally, in his last birth as Prince Vardhaman, he achieved enlightenment and became a Tirthankar.
In one of his previous incarnations, he has been described as Marich, a grandson of Rishabhadeva, the founder of Jainism.
In his first 30 years, Mahavir enjoyed all royal comforts since he was the son of King Siddhartha of Kundagram and his mother Queen Trishala was the daughter of King Chetak of the renowned. United Lichhavi Republic. At this time, as historical records indicate, Vaishali, Ahimsa: The Ultimate Winner ★ (35)